MSNBC host Martin Bashir resigns over Palin remarks

MSNBC host Martin Bashir resigned Wednesday following controversy surrounding remarks he made on his show in November about former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin.

"Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the president of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation," Bashir said in a statement. "It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments."

In a segment that aired on his show in November, Bashir called Palin a "world class idiot" after she equated the United States borrowing money from China with slavery.

Citing a diary item describing various punishments for slaves, Bashir suggested that Palin should be forced to eat excrement.

The host later apologized on air for his remarks and took a leave of absence.

“I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers – who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences," Bashir said in his statement Wednesday.

MSNBC President Phil Griffin said in a statement: "I understand his decision and I thank him for three great years with MSNBC. Martin is a good man and respected colleague — we wish him only the best.”